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Connecting the X2
32 X2 Reference Manual
Interfacing to a Professional +4 dBu Multitrack Recorder
Professional recorders typically feature 3-pin XLR connectors on their inputs and
outputs. The nominal signal level of these units is +4 dBu (1.23 volts). Depending on
the model of recorder, these inputs and outputs may be balanced, servo-balanced
(which automatically compensate if one side of the input is grounded), or
unbalanced. Check the manual of the recorder to find out the true specification for
the inputs and outputs.
The best method for connecting this type of recorder is to purchase an ELCO-to-
XLR multipair cable, available from many different cable manufacturers. This will
connect from the ELCO-type connector on the X2 on one end, fanning out to sixteen
XLRs (eight female, eight male) on the other end. This method assure full-balanced
inputs and outputs, with no level compensation needed as long as the recorder itself
is truly balanced.
Alternatively, in a short-term situation you may use the 1/4" TAPE IN and TAPE
OUT jacks on each channel. In this case, you need:
• An XLR female to 1/4" TRS cable for each output of the tape recorder; and,
• An XLR male to 1/4" mono cable for each send to the tape recorder.
This arrangement will give you a balanced connection on the monitor, but an
unbalanced send from the X2 to the deck. Depending on the characteristics of the
deck, metering levels may not match between the deck and the X2, or on the X2
between Tape Send and Tape Return meter modes (to change the meter mode, see
page 39).
You may need to increase the X2’s fader level in order to get enough level on the
multitrack’s meters. Some multitracks have high/low level input switches; follow
the manufacturer’s instructions on settings these properly if you can’t get enough
output from the X2’s 1/4" TAPE OUT jacks. If that is not possible, you will need to
use the ELCO connectors instead of the 1/4" jacks.